In this episode of UnchartED State, co-hosts Susan Seal and Maddie Ludt are joined by Scott Waller of the Mississippi Business Alliance to explore the critical connection between education and workforce development in Mississippi.

From shifting perceptions of higher education to the growing importance of career pathways and stackable credentials, Scott shares insights on how students, institutions, and employers can better align to meet the demands of today’s economy, while also rethinking what “college” means and how success is defined beyond a traditional degree.

The conversation dives into how Mississippi can strengthen its talent pipeline, why collaboration between education and industry is essential for economic growth, and the challenges of retaining talent and creating clearer pathways to employment. As the state works to build a more resilient and competitive workforce, this episode underscores the importance of alignment, adaptability, and a shared vision for the future of education and work.

In This Episode:

• The rise of career pathways and stackable credentials
• Rethinking the value and definition of a college degree
• Aligning education with workforce and economic needs
• Strengthening Mississippi’s talent pipeline and retaining talent
• The role of business, policy, and education in driving growth
• Why clearer connections between learning and careers matter more than ever